Type O negative blood needed now

June 3, 2010

The supply of type O negative blood at the American Red Cross has dropped significantly.

A decline in blood donations is typical during the summer as donors become busy with seasonal activities and overlook donating blood. For this reason, it is important for eligible donors with blood type O negative to make and keep appointments to give blood this summer.

While all blood types are needed during the critical summer months, type O negative is always in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency situations.

Type O negative donors can make the difference between an adequate blood supply and a summer shortage.

We highly encourage all type O negative blood donors who meet the eligibility requirements to double the difference by becoming a double red cell donor. These donors are able to give two donations at once.